Aaron M. Zook, Jr.
Aaron, an award-winning Christian author, enjoys writing great stories for his readers and fan base. His major focus is his Thunder and Lightning book series in which two teen boys and their talented canine sidekicks race headlong into adventure, mystery and intrigue.
Aaron is a full-time writer, serves on the praise and worship team at Summit Heights Fellowship, and serves as a volunteer for Officers’ Christian Fellowship. He is a certified Speaker, Personality Trainer, Praise and Worship Leader, and a retired U.S. Army Colonel.
Aaron has been married to his wife, Joyce, for more than 40 years. They live in Holly Lake Ranch, TX, and have two married sons and four grandchildren.
Background
Education: BS in Mu Ed, The Pennsylvania State University (PSU)
MBA, Tarleton State University
Masters of Military Science, U.S. Army War College
Conflict Service: Kosovo Campaign; Operation Iraqi Freedom
Writing Career
Aaron’s fascination with writing began at a young age. Then, during his military service, Aaron told exciting adventure stories to his boys while traveling around Europe. Catastrophes, kidnappings, mysteries, hilarious antics, friends, and family intertwine in the Thunder and Lightning Series. Designed to include middle readers, young adults, and people of all ages, the series will ensure you enjoy finger-biting suspense in these terrific stories.
Published Works
Books
The Crashin’ Coaster Mystery (c) 2019 by Aaron M. Zook, Jr., Bold Vision Books
The Isle of Intrigue (c) 2018 by Aaron Zook, Bold Vision Books
The Phantom of the Fortress (c) 2016 by Aaron Zook, Bold Vision Books
The Salt Mines Mystery (c) 2015 by Aaron Zook, Bold Vision Books
The Secrets of the Castle (c) 2012 by Aaron Zook, Bold Vision Books
Articles
Resolution, Refreshing Wind, Celebrate the Presence of God (c) 2013 by CLASSeminars, Inc., WinePress Publishing
His Resurgent Mercy, Echoes of Mercy, Resounding Evidence of God’s Grace (c) 2013 by CLASSeminars, Inc., WinePress Publishing
Capitulation, Transformed, Renewed and Changed by the Power of God (c) 2012 by CLASSeminars, Inc., WinePress Publishing
God’s In Charge; Enjoy the Ride, Out of the Overflow (c) 2011 by Linda Gilden, WinePress Publishing
Treasure Trip, The Journey (c) 2010, Litho Press
Passionate for God, Focus on the Family Clubhouse Magazine, July 2010
Music Ministry
Aaron has penned over 30 songs which he shares with those closest to him. He has led Praise and Worship since 1996 wherever he has been stationed. Aaron’s music ministry has involved couples, Protestant Women of the Chapel ministries, and Officer Christian Fellowship/Christian Military Fellowship events. Aaron was the Praise and Worship leader for the Protestant Chapel Next Contemporary Service at the Spirit of Fort Hood Warrior and Family Chapel from 2011-2015. Aaron’s wife, Joyce, has been an integral part in developing and performing for Lightwalker Ministries.
Musical Background
Guitarist and Vocalist since 1969
Baritone (5 years) The Pennsylvania State University Choir
Baritone with The Penn State Singers
President, The Pennsylvania State University Choir
Christian Service
Fort Hood Officers’ Christian Fellowship Coordinator and Bible study leader.
Praise and Worship Leader, Fort Hood from August 2011 to September 2015.
Field Staff Representative, Fort Hood and South Texas, Officers’ Christian Fellowship – July 2011 through May 2014.
European In-Country Coordinator for Officers’ Christian Fellowship
Music Minister at 1st Assemblies of God, Belton, TX
Praise and Worship Leader since 1996 at various Chapels in Europe and the United States
Licensed Southern Baptist Preacher
Music Teacher (K-6) for Christian Missionary Alliance Church in State College, PA.
Fun Facts
Loves to play guitar and sing
Has run the Berlin Half-Marathon, Indianapolis Half-Marathon, and the Hohenstaufen Lauf in Germany.
Favorite Castle: Neuschwanstein
Likes to eat hot pretzels sold in Salzburg, Austria.
Loves to take his wife on a date.
Favorite Color: Mandarin Orange
Likes to hike the Appalachian Trail
Favorite Fast Food: McDonald’s